Paia

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Paia, Maui

What: Historic Maui town featuring Hookipa Beach, the windsurfing capital of the world
Where: About four miles east of Kahului

Just four miles into your drive to Hana from Kahului, you'll discover the historic town of Paia on Maui's north coast. Divided into Lower Paia and Paia, this hospitable community was once a booming plantation town during the heyday of Maui's sugar cane industry. Today Paia is a town of colorful, rustic storefronts filled with local art galleries, one-of-a-kind shopping boutiques and restaurants.

Grab a fish burger at the popular Paia Fishmarket, then head to Hookipa Beach, the "windsurfing capital of the world." During the winter, the big north shore waves make Hookipa Beach a magnet for pro windsurfers and kite surfers. Watch the pros compete or swim and sunbathe in the calmer summer months. Another popular Paia beach is H.A. Baldwin Beach Park, which features a baby beach with a lagoon.

Note that during the winter, wave conditions can be extremely dangerous so please heed all posted signs for your safety.

We recognize the proper use of the Hawaiian language including the ‘okina [‘], a consonant, and the kahakō [ō] or macron (e.g., in place names of Hawai‘i such as Lāna‘i).However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform.